System and method for removing light scattering film from the interior of a windshield

ABSTRACT

The present invention discloses a system and method for cleaning the light scattering film (LSF) from the surface of a windshield in a vehicle, and more particularly, is directed to a magnetically associated cleaning element that is moved across the interior surface of a windshield by an interactive magnetic force transmitted through the windshield, with magnets associated with the wiper assembly on the other side of the glass.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/118,196, filed Feb. 19, 2015 and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/160,236, filed on May 12,2015. The entire disclosure of the prior applications are considered tobe part of the disclosure of the accompanying application and are herebyincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

A system and method for cleaning light scattering film (LSF) from thesurface of a windshield in a vehicle employs a magnetically associatedcleaning element that is moved across the interior surface of awindshield by an interactive magnetic force transmitted through thewindshield, with magnets associated with the wiper assembly on the otherside of the glass.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Light Scattering Films (LSF) on automobile interior glass surfaces canbe formed from a variety of materials and circumstances. For example,sometimes LSF comprises a combination of dust/condensation with variousmaterials of one's car. Various upholstery or car interior chemicalsused to preserve such surfaces can also contribute to LSF formation, andthus using Armorall or cleaning chemicals (especially on the dash) canincrease this film. The heat or leak from defroster vents can make LSFworse, and smoking can also increase this film. Typically, LSF is amisty-looking icky film, that is almost unnoticeable, until one isdriving directly into the sun, and then LSF can be absolutely blinding.

Chemical analysis of light scattering film formed on interior glasssurfaces of vehicles has revealed that much of the LSF was found to bestable organic compounds, emanating from materials in the vehicleinterior, and condensing on the glass. Some compounds are produced bychemical reaction on the glass. The qualitative and quantitative natureof such films was found to be extremely variable, with environmentalconditions found to contribute to such film's composition. Althoughvehicle manufacturers have long sought to reduce or eliminate thecontributing materials of such films to control the occurrence of LSF,such film formation continues to be a significant problem, and one thatthreatens the safety of the commuting public. Sun glare or glare fromheadlights from LSF's has been identified as a contributing factor innumerous accidents where throngs of people have been injured or killed.Attempts to remove such LSF have included various devices, includingangled wiping tools so that the particularly sloped surfaces of interiorwindshields can be more easily reached. Such tools, however, arecumbersome to use and to carry and are not readily transported, letalone used on a frequent basis, leading to the continued problem of LSFon windshields. When drivers of vehicles notice such film build up, suchas during a morning or afternoon commute on busy highways, attempts toremove such films while driving the vehicle, e.g. by rubbing a hand or acloth across the sloped interior surface of the windshield, is dangerousand distracts the driver even further, thus leading to numerous trafficaccidents. Thus, there is a long felt but unsolved need for a system andmethod that effectively cleans the accumulated LSF from the interior ofwindshields in a simple, economical manner, and via a device that can bereused, readily attached and detached from the vehicle when desired andstored in the vehicle so that the repeated requirement to clean theinterior of a windshield can be accomplished on a regular, periodicbasis.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to addressingthe problem of the accumulation of light scattering film on thewindshields of vehicles, whether they are automobiles, aircraft, etc.The number of unfortunate accidents on the world's highways caused atleast in part to the inability of drivers to properly view theirsurroundings has been a long felt but unsolved problem. While there havebeen various attempts in the past century to address this problem, allsuch prior devices have suffered from on e or more serious drawbacks,broadly including the awkwardness of the devices employed, and thus thereluctance to use the same, the ineffective removal of the lightscattering film in a manner that does not render the situation worse byhaving streaks made on the interior glass surface of windshields, andthe cost of systems that might achieve such a cleaning operation areprohibitive, and therefore not use. Thus, there is a considerable needfor an economical system and method for effectively removing lightscattering film residue on the interior of windshields, and particularlyone where an individual owner of a vehicle can readily employ a deviceon a periodic basis to effectively remove light scattering film residueswithout appreciable streaking of the interior glass surface.

One aspect of the present invention relates to the unprecedentedlightness in weight of a device that can be easily employed to addressthe LSF problems set forth herein. For example, in various embodiments,a series of rare earth element permanent magnets are employed,preferably arranged and organized in a linear array or matrix, such thatthe magnets can be spread across a length of the interior of awindshield's interior, and via contact with a cleaning cloth or othersurface, such magnets can be directed across the LSF surface toeffectively remove such a film. In certain embodiments, just one passmay be required to effectively remove such a film, but in others, morethan two and more preferably, a plurality of passes are employed toadequately remove such film from the interior glass surface of thewindshield. In a particular embodiment, a series of strong, permanentmagnets are arranged in a generally linear relationship over a span ofat least about 8 inches, more preferably at least about 12 inches, andeven more preferably over a length substantially equivalent to thelength of a wiper blade of such vehicle. The magnets may be maintainedin a operably fixed position via various means, including the placementand securement, either temporarily or permanently, within an organizingstructure that positions the magnets a set distance away from each otherso as to be roughly equally spaced along the length of the, for example,wiper blade that resides on the other side of the windshield. In certainembodiments, the magnets are set in a plastic material that isolates theindividual magnets from movement a predetermined distance from eachother, with the plastic construct being sufficiently rigid so that theconstruct does not bend back upon itself, as would occur if theattractive forces of the linearly arrayed magnets were permitted toforce the construct to flex, thus causing the magnets in the line toconnect to each other. In other words, it is preferred to have magnetsconstrained in a liner array such that such magnets retain theirrespective positions from each other to form a desired linear extent sothat when the line of magnets is moved across the windshield's interiorsurface (as described below) they generally maintain the linearrelationship of the construct. Preferably the plastic construct islightweight, durable and washable, e.g. as in a washing machine asfurther described herein. Exterior material intended to come intocontact with the interior of the windshield so as to remove the LSF canbe comprised of a variety of different materials deemed effective incleaning surfaces, and especially glass surfaces. For example, incertain preferred embodiments, microfiber cloth material is associatedwith the above referenced plastic, magnetically enclosing, linearconstruct in a manner such that when the construct is moved it bringsthe associated cleaning material, such as the above referencedmicro-cloth, into contact with the interior of the windshield in amanner that removes the LSF from the surface of the glass interior ofthe windshield. One of skill in the art will appreciate the vast arrayof different materials that can be employed to associate with themagnetic linear construct to achieve the cleaning operation, but suchmaterials include sponges, cloths, newspaper material, nonwovenmaterial, wipes, blades, etc. In a particularly preferred embodiment, amicrofiber cloth is employed having a length that is about the same asthe wiper blade assembly, and has a diamond weave that wipes cleanwithout streaking and in a lint-free manner the interior of thewindshield's surface, with or without added cleaning agents, chemicals,etc., and is washable and reusable.

Certain embodiments include the use of pre-wetted cleaning materials,such as pre-wetted wipes that are preferably designed to connect to thelinear magnetic construct so that such wipes can be employed and laterdiscarded when the cleaning operation is finished. Other embodimentsinvolve the use of a reusable cloth material shaped to fit with andconnect with the linear construct as described herein. In such a fashionthe cloth material may resemble a linear sock that can receive themagnetic plastic construct so that once the cloth sock is positionedaround the magnetic construct, it is ready to use to clean the interiorsurface of the windshield.

It will be understood that while the described preferred embodimentemploys a series of individual magnets spaced apart from each other,other embodiments may use magnetic elements that extend the entirelength of the construct, such a longer bar magnet. Moreover, still otherembodiments may use a series of magnets that positioned with little ifany space between them. In preferred embodiments, however, for cost ofconstruction purposes and in view of the ability to accomplish thedesired interior windshield cleaning operation by the use of a minimumnumber of magnets, the need for and the undesired weights (in manyembodiments) that would be occasioned by the use of more magnets wouldtypically suggest that the cleaning contract have a limited number ofmagnets required to facilitate the adherence of the construct to theinterior of the windshield as the construct is moved across the surfaceof the windshield. Thus, in certain embodiments, as little as twooppositely aligned magnets are used on or near the respectiveend-portions of a linear construct that has glass contacting elementsand is sufficiently rigid along its length so that the remotely spacedmagnets of the construct maintain the construct in its desired linearextension as the construct is propelled across the glass surface. In aparticular embodiment, a substantially rigid extent of plastic has astrong magnet positioned at each end thereof and is associated with acleaning cloth or wipe, etc. The end-positioned magnets are attracted toiron-containing material on the opposite side of the glass, such as themetal portions of a wiper blade construct on a vehicle. In morepreferred embodiments, magnets are positioned on the exterior wiperblade assembles so that they are effective in attracting an opposingpositioned magnet of the linear construct as described herein. Theobjective is to achieve magnetic attraction between the linear constructand the exterior positioned magnets such that when the wiper bladeassembly moves across the exterior extent of the glass, the magneticforces compel the interiorly positioned linear extension to also movewith the wiper blade, but on the other side of the glass. Thus, invarious embodiments, a retrofit kit is provided that includes suitablemagnet devices that are then interconnected with existing wiper bladeassembles. The kit also includes the above referenced magnetic cleaningwand (e.g. the linear construct mentioned herein in association with oneor more of the cleaning materials that are brought into contact with theinterior of the windshield to remove the LSF residues.

As one of skill in the art will appreciate, the thickness of any givenglass windshield may vary, and thus the magnetic attraction involvedbetween the exterior mounted or positioned magnets on a wiper bladeassembly and the magnets employed on the interior cleaning wandconstruct can vary. Preferably, magnets are selected that canappropriately attract each other across a traditional windshield glassthickness of about 4.76 MM to 6.76 MM. Moreover, in certain embodiments,the extent of the LSF build up may vary and thus there may be a desireto attain a stronger magnetic attraction across the windshield thicknessso as to achieve a better (e.g. less streaks, less times required tomove the cleaning wand across the surface, etc.) cleaning operation.

Magnet strength can be measured in various manners, but a typical way isto refer to the pull force of a magnet, meaning the force required topull a magnet directly away from a steel surface, and is expressed as asingle number. Other ways to refer to the measurement of the magneticfield's strength and direction at a particular point near the magnet isexpressed in Gauss or Tesla (1 Tesla=10,000 Gauss). The highest strengthin the smallest possible magnet at room temperature, is a grade N52magnet. A grade N42 magnet is often preferable due to its lower costwhile its strength and performance at higher operating temperatures issimilar to an N52 magnet, especially if one uses a slightly larger N42magnet. Preferably, due to the light weight and high strength thereof,Neodymium magnets are preferred, which are composed of neodymium, ironand boron and also referred to as NIB or NdFeB magnets. The grade ofneodymium magnets is generally measured in units millions of GaussOersted (MGOe). A magnet of grade N42 has a Maximum Energy Product of 42MGOe. Generally speaking, the higher the grade, the stronger the magnet.The surface field of a magnet is an accurate specification for a magnetand is the magnetic field density at the surface of the magnet asmeasured by a Gaussmeter. Neodymium magnets are the strongest and mostpermanent magnets known to man. If they are not overheated or physicallydamaged, neodymium magnets will lose less than 1% of their strength over10 years—and they don't their strength if they are held in repelling orattracting positions with other magnets over long periods of time.

In still other embodiments, the desire to have a strong attractivemagnetic force employed to achieve the consequent movement of theinteriorly positioned cleaning wand and the exteriorly positioned wiperassembly 9 fitted with magnetically attractive elements to attract thecleaning wand through the thickness of the windshield) may make itdifficult to facilitate the desired translational movement of thecleaning wand across the interior surface when the wiper blade is moved.While in many embodiments, the use of a soft cloth provides sufficientlack of frictional forces so that desired movement of the wand inconcert with the wiper blade movement is achieved, the stronger themagnetic attraction, the more frictional force must be overcome at thecleaning wand-interior windshield surface interface. Thus, in variousembodiments, friction reducing elements are employed, which may includerotating elements such as balls, wheels, castors, partially exposedball-bearings, etc. Such friction reducing features can be employed oneither or both of the interior and exterior of the windshield, and thusthe linear construct may have at least one, preferably at least two, andmore preferably a plurality of friction reducing elements, such as thewheels, ball bearings, etc. so that the movement of the linear constructacross the interior surface of the windshield is facilitated while atthe same time. The cleaning material associated with the linearconstruct is brought in to contact with the interior surface of thewindshield so as to achieve the cleaning of LSF therefrom. Thus, in someembodiments a retrofit kit is provided that has a clip on or slip onmechanism that operably associated with an existing wiper blade assemblysuch that both the magnetic attractive aspects described herein areachieved, as well as the facilitating of the smooth movement of thewiper blade across the exterior of the windshield during wiperoperations, without unduly hindering such movement due to the increasedfrictional forces experienced between the wiper blade and the exteriorglass surface caused by the magnetic attractive forces experienced whenthe magnetic cleaning wand is positioned on the interior side of thewindshield. A kit of the present invention would preferably include twomagnetic cleaning wands, one for each of the typically two wiper bladeassemblies found on most vehicles. Certain vehicles, however, employjust one larger wiper assembly, and thus, other kits would include justa single linear construct suitable for use with a single wiper vehicle.

In a particular embodiment, a magnetic cleaning wand includes at leasttwo rolling elements that are positioned at spaced apart positions of acleaning wand, e.g. one rolling element at or near a first end of acleaning wand, with another positioned at or near an opposite end, withmagnetic elements associated with the wand, also positioned at leastnear the ends of the wand, and even more preferably with at leastanother magnetic element at the center of the wand. In certainembodiments, a rolling (e.g. friction reducing feature) is employedsubstantially adjacent a magnetic element that is positioned on thecleaning wand due to the potential of a magnetic elements that is notsupported above the surface of the glass, may thus hinder the desiredtravel of the cleaning wand across the interior of the windshield whenthe exterior wiper assembly is operated. In other words, to achieveminimal frictional hindrance of the translational movement of thecleaning wand across the interior surface of the windshield, frictionalreducing elements, such as wheels, balls, etc. are employed directlyadjacent to the magnetic elements, thus supporting the linear constructat the very places where maximum magnetic attractive forces wouldotherwise cause the linear construct to bend or flex. In a preferredembodiment, only the exterior or the interior magnetic component has arolling, friction reducing element associated with it. In a particularlypreferred embodiment, the exterior windshield magnetic componentassociated with the wiper blade assembly has a rolling componentassociated with it, while the interior windshield magnetic cleaning wanddoes not, thus enhancing the contact and thus cleaning efficiency of theinterior of the windshield due to the frictional force exerted by theopposing magnets separated by the windshield. The rolling features ofthe wiper blade assembly make it easier for the wiper motor to move thewiper device despite the increased magnetic attractive forces, thus thecleaning of the interior of the windshield is accomplished without unduestrain on the wiper blade assembly. In a particular embodiment, at leasttwo roller features, preferably wheels are associated with the magneticcomponents associated with the wiper blade assembly. Preferably a rigid,elongated sock structure is fitted over the wiper assembly such that onethe wiper is in die such a sock structure, the wheels of the structurecontact the two end regions of the wiper next to the exterior of thewindshield. The operation of the wiper then causes the sock structure tomove with the wiper as the two end-wheels of the structure traverse thewindshield in an arc pattern, with minimal friction from the wiper dueto the absence of the rubber wiper blade touching the window's surface.Conversely, the interior magnetic component preferably does not possessany rolling friction reducing elements, and thus, the preferred cleaningwand contact with the interior of the windshield results in significantpressure being applied due to the strong magnetic attraction between themagnetic cleaning wand and the opposing magnetic elements on the wiperblade assembly. Preferably one merely needs to position a cleaning wandalong the junction between a dashboard and the windshield on theopposite side of the wiper assembly in order for the magnetic attractiveforces to cause the opposing structures, separated by the windshield, toattract to each other. The operation of the wiper for a preferably shortperiod of time will result in the cleaning wand traversing the interiorof the windshield several times, each time cleaning the light scatteringfilm deposits thereon. After such LSF is sufficiently removed, the wiperassembly is stopped and the wiper structural sock can be removed, Whilein most cases the wiper structural sock does not require any additionalfixing element to keep the structural sock in place during a cleaningoperation, (e.g. due to the magnetic forces between the sock and theopposed cleaning wand, in some embodiments, a connecting feature, suchas a hook and loop tie to the wiper blade assembly is employed to ensurethe structural sock does not inadvertently fly off the wiper bladeassembly.

Thus, as opposed to the various physical characteristics of the priorart devices, the present embodiments preferably include being of slightweight, e.g. from about one once to less than ½ a pound, more preferablyabout 10-500 grams, and more preferably no more than about 200 grams.The length of the linear constructs are preferably substantially thesame as the length of a wiper blade assembly for the particular vehicleat issue, but in various embodiments the length can be as short as about6 inches and as long as a few inches longer than the wiper bladeassembly—such that even more surface area of the interior of thewindshield can be cleaned as compared to the area of the wiperassemblies path across the exterior of the windshield. I still otherembodiments, along with the cleaning elements as described herein, thelinear construct can include a squeegee-type of feature such that theLSF can also or alternatively solely removed via such a squeegeefeature. One of skill in the art will appreciated the variouscombinations of cleanings materials and number and type of internalwindow contacting blades that can be associated with a linear constructso achieve desired cleaning operations. Thus, for example, in oneembodiment, cleaning wand is provided that can interchangeably includeslidable elements that vary from micro-cloth materials, squeegee blades,sponges, and wipe-retaining clips, thus providing a user the flexibilityto address their particular LSF problems as they see fit.

Preferably, the magnetic cleaning wands as described herein would bewashable so as to clean the residual debris from the removal of LSF froma windshield. Various embodiments use materials of construction that canwithstand the rigors of washing machines so that a vehicle owner cansimply wash the cleaning wands and reuse them after being cleaned. Asthe accumulation of LSF on windshields is an ongoing concern and must beaccomplished every few months (preferably) the present inventionprovides a simple and cost effective way, that avoids the awkwardness ofprior art tools to achieve the cleaning the difficult sloped interiorsurfaces of today's vehicle windshields.

In operation, the method of various embodiments proceeds with a userproviding at least one of the linear constructs (e.g. the magneticcleaning wand) as described herein to the interior of a vehicle, nearthe interface of the windshield and the dashboard of the vehicle. Thewiper blade assembly of the vehicle may already possess sufficient ironcontaining metals to facilitate the desired magnetic attraction betweenthe cleaning wand and the wiper blade. But to the extent it does not,magnets are portioned on the exterior wiper blade assembly in suitablepositions so that they magnetically attract the magnetic elements on thecleaning wand through the windshield glass. Preferably the adaptation ofexisting wiper blade assemblies in such a fashion is achieved via thesliding-on of a plastic sleeve that has magnets positioned thereon in aproper position so as to align with the cleaning wand magnetic elementson the interior side of the windshield. While one can maintain thecleaning wand in magnetic attractive contact with the wiper assemblyeven when the wiper is operated for typical removal of rain, road spray,etc., preferably the linear construct(s) are stored under a seat, in theglove box, etc. until they are employed for the particular use incleaning LSF from the interior surface of the windshield. In otherwords, while the lightweight and generally sleek preferred design of thecleaning wands used may be unobtrusive to a driver of a vehicle when theexterior wipers are employed, it is believed to be a better practice toreversibly magnetically attach the cleaning wands to the exterior wiperassemblies only periodically to achieve the desired cleaning operationof LSF from the interior window surface.

In yet further embodiments of the present invention, a cleaning wandconstruct further includes the use of vibrating elements (e.g.Hexbug-type elements) such that additional cleaning movement areachieved in addition to that achieved when merely the wiper blademovement is involved. For example, despite attempts to wipe a glasssurface in a manner that will reduce or eliminate the occurrence ofstreaks, there exists the problem that the same path of a cleaning wandmay nevertheless result in uniform streaks being made due toirregularities of the window contaminating surfaces, etc. Thus, incertain embodiments, the provision of vibrating elements along thelinear extent of the cleaning wand assist in the cleaning and surfacecontacting motions that may be required to remove especially stubbornLSF from the interior of a windshield. As one of skill in the art willappreciate, various ways to achieve additional cleaning motions alongthe linear extent of a cleaning wand can be employed, including relianceupon the translational movement of the wand across the interiorwindshield surface, where particular rotating ting features can furtherbe provided on the linear construct to facilitate twirling of cleaningelements while the linear construct itself is traveling across thesurface of the window. In such a manner, one is able to reduce theprospects that a static point of contact between the cleaning materialand the glass surface will be constants, and thus prone to leave streakswhen repeated passes of the cleaning material occurs.

In certain applications, a Hexbug type device is employed to achievemovement on the glass surface, thus making it easier to remove the LSFtherefrom. The Hexbug is a widely popular and valuable toy that moves byvibrational energy provided by small magnets, such as via SizeAG12/LR43, preferably Alkaline with a voltage of 1.5 Volts. In oneembodiment that will illustrate the use of vibratory elements inassociation with a magnetic cleaning wand, and as depicted in the Fig.s,at least three, and more preferably at least about 5 or more hexbug toysare positioned in between the spaced apart magnets that are retained onthe linear construct. Such hexbugs are themselves restrained via beingglued to the plastic linear construct so that their moving feet featuresare all positioned in the same direction, preferably perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis of the linear construct. The hexbugs are turned onvia their individual switches on their bottom portions (e.g. by theirmoving legs.) A micro-cloth material is then connected to the linearconstruct so that the cloth material lies over the feet of the hexbugs.(Alternatively, the hexbugs can be activated through the cloth materialor in another suitable manner.) The magnetic cleaning wand is thenproperly positioned to align with magnetically attractive features onthe wiper blade assemblies on the exterior of the vehicle and the wiperis operated to repeatedly drag the cleaning wand across the interiorportion of the windshield with the hexbugs' vibrational movement causingthe cloth material to contact the interior window surface in a movingbrush-like fashion, thus further assisting in the removal of LSF debris.One of skill in the art will appreciate the other vibrational ormoveable features that can be associated with the magnetically linearconstruct so as to achieve enhanced cleaning of LSF from the interior ofa windshield.

One aspect of the present invention relates to reminding a driver of avehicle that it is time to clean the accumulated film that builds up onthe interior of a windshield. While such film can be seen when a driverhappens to drive into the sun in either a morning or afternoon commute,the dangerous recognition that such film at such time often leads to thedriver attempting to remedy the problem by reaching out to rub theinterior surface of the windshield, thus taking attention away from theact of driving, resulting in accidents occurring. Thus, one feature ofcertain embodiments includes the periodic signaling of when interiorwindshields should be cleaned. Several embodiments of the linearmagnetic construct as described herein include an electronic alarm thatis activated after a predetermined time has elapsed between windowcleanings. In such a manner, a driver will be reminded via such a signal(preferably audible) that the accumulated film on the interior of thewindshield should be removed to avoid the above referenced dangersinherent in having such film build-up occur.

Other embodiments include telescoping linear constructs that permit oneto vary the length of the construct so fit the area to be cleaned of theinterior of a windshield. Thus, in one embodiment, a six inch length ofa magnetic construct can be telescopically extended via simply pullingon one end to extend the construct to up to three or more times itscompacted size. Other embodiments have jointed structures so that aparticular section of such a construct, e.g. a 6 inch section) can beunfolded to create a much longer extension. Any suitable hingedarrangement between adjacent segments of a magnetic construct asdescribed herein can be employed. The ability of the construct to bereduced in linear size by either folding, telescopically reduced, etc.facilitates the ease by which a driver can store and then later use suchdevice to remove LSF from windshield interior surfaces.

Thus, as further illustrated in the figures and described herein, invarious embodiments, magnets are employed that are associated with theexisting wiper blade assembly on the outside of a windshield andattracting magnets are positioned on the other side (interior) of thewindshield where such magnets are associated with a cleaning member.Preferably, the interior cleaning member has a smooth gliding mechanismassociated therewith, such as a soft cloth or rotating wheels, such thatthe cleaning member can smoothly and without resistance contact and moveacross the interior surface of the windshield. The exterior wiper mayalso in certain embodiments have a smooth gliding assembly associatedtherewith, such that in the event the strong magnetic forces compressthe wiper into the glass surface in a manner that causes unduefrictional contact with the windshield in a manner that precludes smoothand normal operation of the wiper, the gliding members, includingrolling members, such as wheels, prevent such undue frictional contactwith the windshield glass, and instead, the wheels permit the wiper tomove in its intended arc when operated, and regardless of the increasedmagnetic forces being applied that compel the wiper and/or the interiorpositioned magnetic construct to be attracted to the glass surface.

While the emphasis of the present specification has been directed to theremoval of LSF, one of skill in the art will appreciate the otherrelated uses of the present invention to achieve similar purposes, suchas the reduction or removal of condensation for the interior of awindshield, which similarly poses a hazard to vehicle operators. Thecondensation is a known physical process for which a substance changesfrom the gaseous state to the liquid one by means of compression orcooling. If such substance is water, when the vapor existing in theatmosphere or present in a microclimate contacts a cool surface, on thislatter a condensation process occurs, which causes the formation ofwater droplets, called condensate, on the surface itself. Very often itis necessary to remove the condensate which has formed on a surface forbeing able to properly use the device which bears the surface itself. Avehicle windshield, if covered with condensate, loses its opticalcharacteristics because of the water droplets which multi-directionallyrefract the light, making almost impossible the driving of the vehicle.

Moreover, as one of skill will appreciate, while the presentspecification is particularly directed to the reduction of LSF on theinterior surface of vehicle windshields, the various embodiments of thepresent invention find other various applications' in similar fields ofendeavor, for example the cleaning of windows of building structures,boats, aircraft, homes offices, signs, office building windows,billboards, the internal surface of the glass of a diving/scuba mask,etc. It will be appreciated that in preferred embodiments a moveablemember on the opposite side of a surface (e.g. not necessarily glass—butsufficiently thin so that magnetic attractive forces can be employed tomaintain the cleaning wand in a desired position) where the linearconstruct is moved due to the consequent movement of an element on theother side of the surface to be cleaned. In various other embodiments, awetting agent may be useful in achieving the removal of LSF from theinterior of a windshield. Thus, the out surface of the magnetic linearconstruct, preferably being a soft cloth material, can be wetted by acleaning agent, such as Windex™, water, etc. In particular embodiments,a disposable wipe that is specially configured for use with the presentinvention is connected to the linear magnetic construct such that thedirty film can be removed more efficiently and then the wipe disposedof. As such, certain embodiments of the construct include clamps orother suitable attachment members so that a wipe can be reversiblyattached or connected to the construct.

In still other embodiments, a system for use in a vehicle includes notonly the ability to clean the windshield, but also the other windows ofthe vehicle. Thus, in various embodiments, a separate “sister” elongatedlinear construct sized to be substantially similar to a window'slongitudinal extent, is provided, such that lowering the window when themagnetically opposed constructs are in place on opposite sides of avehicle's window will cause the two constructs to contact the lowermostportion of a window edge, pressing the window between them when thewindow is opened, thus bringing the window down into the vehicle door.The frictional forces caused by the opposed magnetic structures,especially with the clearing surfaces of associated cloths thereof,removes the interior films that have built up on such interior surfaces.In certain embodiments, only the interior of the window is cleaned insuch a fashion, but in other embodiments, both sides of the window arecleaned. Thus, in embodiments where just the interior is cleaned, theexteriorly positioned linear magnetic construct need not have anycontact cleaning abilities, but rather merely has magnetic attractiveattributes such that it functions to maintain the interior windowmagnetic linear construct in a magnetically attractive position on theinterior of the window during the closing of the window as describedherein.

A manually operable magnetic apparatus for wiping windows or some othercomparable surface free of moisture and or pollutants and LSF preferablycomprises two elongated, linear constructs made of plastic or othercomposition and fitted with one or more, and preferably a plurality ofmagnets so that such constructs, when placed opposite each other througha window surface, are held there by their magnetic attraction. Themovement of the wiper blade assembly of the vehicle, which is fittedwith one of the two constructs, causes the interiorly positionedconstruct to follow the translational movements of the wiper blade (e.g.in an arced movement across the majority of the windshield surface) andto follows in unison along the window surface, thus wiping the interiorsurface of the windshield in a manner to reduce, if not eliminate LSFresident thereon.

The elongate, linear magnetic construct is reusable, sturdy, andportable, and does not require soaps or, cleaning fluids, althoughcertain embodiments do include the same. Preferably, embodiments includethe use of a wiping cloth, even more preferably a micro-cloth surface,which effectively removes LSF from the interior of a windshield whenrubbed across the surface thereof. One will appreciate that such windowcontacting cleaning materials may also be sprayed or otherwise contactedwith water, glass cleaning substances, etc. to further promote thecleaning of the interior of the window surface using the cleaning wandsas described herein.

In various embodiments, the magnetic constructs are made from a mold ofplastic or other composition, and fitted within these two molds aremetal plates and magnets. The metal plates adhered to the magnets act asan armature for greater flux density, hence greater pull power. Incertain embodiments, an exterior construct is provided with magnets thatare reversibly attachable to the construct by hook and loop fasteningmaterial layers. When the wiper blade assembly is fitted with a suitablenumber of magnets in such an exterior construct is employed, such as aplurality of magnets slid onto existing wiper assemblies via a slide-onplastic channel pre-fitted with such magnets, an interior linearconstruct of substantially similar length as the exterior construct isplaced opposite across the window surface so that the magneticattraction holds the unit constructs to the window surface. When thewiper assembly with the exterior construct is drawn across the windowsurface, the interior construct follows in unison, and the interiormagnetic construct then wipes the interior of the window clear.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, number of certain elements, method ofmanufacturing, materials, shape, form, function, and manner ofoperation, assembly and use, or addition to, are deemed readily apparentand obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationshipsto those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specificationare intended to be encompassed by the present invention. Therefore, theforegoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of theinvention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes willreadily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limitthe invention to the exact construction and operation shown anddescribed, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalentsmay be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

In certain embodiments, a hexbug-type vibrational feature is provided inassociation with the linear internal magnetic construct of the presentinvention such that increased cleaning of LSF may be achieved. In otherwords, in certain situations, the mere movement of a wiper and theconsequential movement of a magnetically attracted cleaning wand may notbe sufficient to satisfactorily remove all or substantially all of theLSF encountered on a windshield's interior. Removal of such LSF can,however be facilitated and accomplished by oscillation of a deviceassociated with the interior magnetic constrict, such as induced by themotion of a vibration mechanism inside of, or attached to, theconstruct. The vibration mechanism can include a motor rotating a weightwith a center of mass that is offset relative to the rotational axis ofthe motor. The rotational movement of the weight causes the rotationalmotor (also referred to herein as a “vibration mechanism”), and theobject to which it is attached, to vibrate. The vibration of the objectinduces oscillations in construct, thus communicating such movement ofthe cleaning cloth contacting the LSF material on the interior of awindshield. As an example, the vibrational device associated with aconstruct may include for example, the type of vibration mechanism thatexists in many pagers and cell phones that, when in vibrate mode, causethe pager or cell phone to vibrate. Other vibrational devices can beemployed, for example those used in vibrating razors and other similarimplements, with U.S. Pat. No. 6,481,104 to Parker herein incorporatedherein in its entirety for relevant disclosure of such vibrationdevices.

In other embodiments that include a friction reducing feature, such as arolling mechanism that permits movement of the construct across theglass to achieve the cleaning operation, a first wheel member (s) mayhave a surface formed of a material such as fabric or rubber to generatea frictional force against a window when the first wheel members arerotated. Thus, first wheel members may be easily moved along the innersurface of the window without idling and each of the first wheel membersmay have a surface formed of a material to prevent a scratch fromoccurring on a window due to the rotation of the first wheel members.When a first cleaning magnetic construct is attached to a surface of awindow by a magnetic force of a magnetic construct associated with awiper blade assembly, the magnetic modules create an attractive forcesuch that the interior construct is carried along the same path oftravel as the exterior wiper blade. As the interior construct also has asurface contacting cleaning member associated therewith, such as amicro-cloth or wipe, such movement causes the LSF to be removed.

In particular embodiments, the inside interior windshield construct hasno wiper blade associated with the construct, but instead, solely has asoft cloth material that contact this interior windshield glass. Inother embodiments, however, at least one blade is employed either aloneor in conjunction with a soft cloth to clean the LSF from the interiorof the windshield glass surface. In still other embodiments, twosqueegees are used, with a soft cloth material in-between such squeegeeblades.

The outside wiper blade is preferably strongly attracted to the insidemagnetic construct via powerful light weight rare-earth magnets, withthe attraction between the two parts being so strong that the interiorconstruct can apply sufficient force towards the glass surface thatmovement of such construct, whether translationally across thewindshield surface, and/or via the vibrational movement provided by theHexbug-type mechanisms associated with the interior construct,effectively cleans the LSF from the interior of the windshield in anefficient, easy manner that does not require one to employ angled brushor cloth members to manually attempt to clean such surface. The interiorcleaning construct, however, is easily detached so that one can storethe constructs under a car seat, in a glove box, etc. when not in use.

On aspect of the present invention is to address the magnetic strengthof the attractive forces employed so that one achieves the desiredtranslational movement of the construct across the windshield in amanner such that LSF is effectively removed. Too strong an attractiveforce will not permit the desired movement, while too light a magneticconnecting force will not achieve the cleaning function intended. Thus,various embodiments of the invention address this concern in differentmanners. One such manner involves the use of additional frictionreducing features to permit the use of strong magnets but that do nothinder the desired movement of the construct across the window. Otherembodiments, are employed that specifically employ just the right forcenecessary to achieve this purpose without additional friction redoingfeatures, other than the cleaning contacting materials, and theseembodiments are believed to be most available due to the standardconstruct of most modern day windshields. In still other embodiments,however, one can fine tune the amount of magnetic attraction desired toemploy by having an adjustable feature on the construct that lessens themagnetic force or increases it as desired. For example, in certainembodiments, a non-magnetic material is slid into position between theattractive magnetic forces so as to interfere with the attraction, thuspermitting easier movement of the construct across a windshield.

One will appreciate that the advent of neodymium magnets has lead tounprecedented designs and structures that would be difficult orimpossible if one were to employ more traditional magnetic elements.Thus, in the present inventive embodiments, there is a requirement for afunctioning system to clean the interior of a windshield using thepowered movement of an outside wiper assembly, that not only must themagnetic attractive forces be significant, but the weight of the magnetsinvolved must be minimal so that the cleaning wand magnetically attachedcomponents can function, especially given the rapid movement of today'svehicle wipers. Therefore, it will be appreciated that many teachings ofthe prior art with respect to the use of magnets on opposite sides of awindshield are remote from the present embodiments as such prior artteaches structures that fail to possess the significantly more robustmagnetic attractive forces necessary to employ the prevent invention,and also involve significantly heavier and rigid components that wouldpreclude many of the structural and functional characteristics of theclaimed embodiments. The ability of the present embodiments to becompact, with unprecedented magnetic strength and to be designed so thatmajor structural changes to existing wiper assemblies are not involved,makes the present invention distinct from the prior art. The ability toretrofit wiper assemblies, whether temporarily (e.g. via the use ofstructural encompassing sock-like components that encompass the wiperassemblies), or alternatively more permanently via the inclusion of rareearth magnets on the wiper assembles themselves, e.g. via adhesive gluesto permanently affix such magnets to the wiper assemblies, the advent oflight weight and yet incredibly strong rare earth magnets has largelymade the various presently described embodiments possible andpracticable.

Thus, in certain preferred embodiments of the present invention a systemis provided for cleaning light scattering film from the interior of awindshield that includes a magnetic component adapted to attach to awiper assembly of a vehicle, as well as a magnetic linear constructcomprising a semi-rigid plate, such plate adapted to receive a pluralityof rare earth magnets in a linear array, such construct positionable ina first position for magnetic attraction with the magnetic component. Acleaning element comprised of cloth, paper or non-woven material, isprovided that is reversibly connected to the linear construct and has asurface for contacting the interior of a windshield at a portionopposite the wiper assembly positioned on the exterior of thewindshield. When the wiper blade is operated, the magnetic forcesbetween said magnetic component and the magnetic linear construct compelthe magnetic linear construct to travel across an interior surface ofthe windshield to remove light scattering film present on the interiorsurface. Preferably the plate is resiliently flexible and the cleaningelement comprises a micro-fiber covering that encompasses a plurality ofrare earth magnets that are aligned with an identical number of rareearth magnets associated with the magnetic component such that thelinear construct weighs less than about ½ pound and is from about 26-36inches long. More preferably, the rare earth magnets comprise Neodymiummagnets. Other embodiments include a magnetic component associated withthe wiper assembly which has a rolling friction reducing elementassociated therewith and the magnetic linear construct is devoid of arolling friction reducing element. Certain embodiments employ frictionreducing elements that comprise two wheels spaced at the opposite endsof the magnetic component associated with the wiper blade assembly.Other embodiments include flexible structures that resemble an elongatedsock or wand. Some have the magnets remaining permanently on the wiperassembly, while others have reversibly attachable magnetic components.Yet other embodiments have magnets arranged on a flexible cloth materialthat does not include a rigid or semi rigid plastic organizer for themagnets, thus facilitating folding of the cleaning wand and of theopposing wiper sock. Still other embodiments relate to the use of asystem that employs attractive rare earth magnetic cleaning wands onopposite sides of the glass of high rise buildings and skyscrapers. Inseveral embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the cleaning of suchwindows can be accomplished without the risk of human life due to theemployment of scaffolded persons to wash outside windows, Instead, oneaspect of the present invention is directed to providing a magneticcleaving wand sized to extend across the majority of a building'swindows (preferably a building having uniformly sized windows), such asby having a pulley system mounted on the top of a building lower anattached cleaning wand to the bottom of a window to be cleaned. On theopposite, interior side of the window, one provides a counterpartmagnetic cleaning wand that magnetically attracts the elongated cleaningwand on the exterior of the window, and that is associated with thepulley system. Raising the exterior wand via pulling of the pulley toeffect upward movement of the cleaning wand then causes the interiorcleaning wand, which is now magnetically attracted to the exteriorcleaning wand, to also move upward on the interior of the window. Thesignificant magnetic forces between the opposed cleaning wands thengenerates sufficient frictional forces to clean both the exterior andthe interior of the window surfaces at the same time. When the exteriormagnetic cleaning wand reaches the top of the window and passes furtherup due to progressive pulley movement, the interior magnetic cleaningwand hits the uppermost section of the window and then is pulled awayfrom the exterior cleaning wand by steric obstruction caused by the topof the window frame. At that point the magnetic attractive forces ceaseto hold the opposed cleaning wands together and the interior cleaningwand falls to the bottom of the window in a harmless manner, e.g. as theinterior cleaning wand is relatively lightweight, is flexible andprimarily comprised of a linear magnetic rare earth magnet sectionrunning through the cleaner wand, and a covering material that comesinto contact with the window. Such interior cleaning wand can then bereused for the next window on the next story of the building, orpreferably, there are at least three two interior cleaning wandsemployed in a window cleaning operation such that the arrival of theexterior cleaning wand at the second story (after having the firststory's interior wand break contact with the exterior cleaning wand)would then attract the second story cleaning wand, positioned at thebottom of the second story window, and the now detached first storyinterior cleaning wand could then be provided to the third story window.In such a manner, the cleaning of both the interior and exterior windowsof a high-rise building's windows can be achieved with as just threecleaning wands (e.g. one exterior and two interior wands).

As one will appreciate, with respect to the above high-rise windowcleaning system and method, the present inventive embodiment provides amoveable cleaning system that enables the cleaning of window surfaceswithout the use of personnel at the specific site of cleaning. Thesystem can be fully automated, with programming set to enable the systemto clean an entire window vertical extent of a surface such as an officebuilding or hotel, and allow system control by someone distal from orproximal to the direct point of application of the cleaning activity.While motorized units can assist with the operation of the pulley unit,it is also possible to clean significantly high building windows by avery inexpensive set up of a pulley and simply three magneticallyattractive cleaning wands which does not employ a motor, but rather,just a hand pulley system. U.S. Pat. No. 8,790,468 to Simonette isincorporated herein in its entirety to provide written description andenablement of various embodiments of the present invention. There is norequirement that a person be elevated at the various heights of windowsto perform cleaning operations, thus eliminating the risks involved, andthe attendant liabilities of the building owners or managers. One ofskill in the art will appreciate the numerous ways to provide desiredwater, soaps, etc. to the exterior and interior cleaning wands, and suchadditional aspects of having water hoses directed at the windowexteriors either prior, after or during the cleaning operation iscertainly within the scope of the present invention. Likewise,preloading the exterior or interior cleaning wands with cleaning agentsto achieve clean windows is also within the scope of the presentinvention. In certain embodiments, a “French drain” structure may beemployed, which may have rare earth magnets associated therewith or mayinstead be devoid of such magnets, but otherwise is magneticallyattractive due to iron content, e.g. such as a iron pipe, preferablywith a multiplicity of holes or apertures therein that permit water toleak out so as to soak the covering material of the iron pipe. Thus, aniron containing bar that has cleaning surface material associatedtherewith, such as a micro-fiber cloth, can be employed as the exteriorelongated bar member that is associated with the pulley to raise andlower such cleaning wand to effect cleaning of the exterior window. Awaster source may then be associated with such cleaning wand to deliverdesired amounts of water through the interior regions of the elongatedpipe component.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that various constructs of anelongated pipe having such water leaking abilities is possible, such asthe employment of a PVC pipe with a plurality of apertures, with suchPVC pipe being much lighter than an iron pope, and thus, easier tomanipulate with a pulley and less dangerous in terms of accidentalbreakage of windows from undesired contact therewith. One will alsoappreciate that in various embodiments, the exterior or interiormagnetically associated structures can be connected with squeegee bladesto further enhance the window cleaning operation. Indeed, in onepreferred embodiment, a PVC elongated pipe have a French Drainconstruction is associated with both a squeegee blade that extends thelength of such PVC pipe, as well as associated with a cleaning material,such a s a micro-fiber, sponge, etc. covering that is effective inremoving dirt and grime from a window surface. Rare earth magnets areassociated with such PVC pipe to render it attractive to an interiorlypositioned elongated member inside the building, such that the magneticattractive forces cause sufficient frictional attractive forces to cleanthe window as the elongated members are raised upward due to themovement of the pulley form the exterior of the building.

In still other embodiments, a series of suspended exterior pipestructures as described herein can be suspended form one pulley at thetop of a building, such that each story, for example, may have acleaning wand bar directly outside each story's window, and amagnetically attractive elongated cleaning wand (or if cleaning of theinterior window is not desired, then simply a magnetically attractiveinterior bar that is of substantially the same length as the exteriorcleaning wand) is positioned at the bottom of the window to be cleaned,thus permitting the magnetic forces between the exterior and interiorcomponents to attract to each other such that when the pulley operatedto raise the series of exterior cleaning wands, with each thenassociated with an internal magnetically attractive bar, the windows ofthe building can be effectively cleaned upon the raising (and in someembodiments also lowering) of the bars, in unison. Repeated up and downmotions of such a pulley system may be desired, in which case, care istaken to avoid the unintentional separation of the magneticallyattractive bars, e.g. an operator would stop upward movement prior tothe interior bar is separated at the top of the window.

In alternative cleaning methods using the above described pulley systemof magnetically attractive elongated bars, and with at least one of theexterior or interior cleaning bar having both a cleaning surface (suchas a micro-fiber cloth) and a squeegee blade associated with theelongated cleaning wand, it si possible to squeegee in the downwarddirection after the window surface has been sufficiently cleaned via upand down motions of the pulley driven system. Thus, a final downwardsqueegee pass on the window in the downward direction would removeresidual moisture from the cleaning operation.

An issue that presents itself with magnets moving while attempting tomaintain the magnetic attractive forces while being moved, is that themagnetic attraction is sometimes overcome by the frictional forcesinvolved upon which the magnet is moving. Thus, to reduce suchfrictional interference with the movement of the magnet pair when ittraverses a window surface, such as a vehicle windshield's surface, itis preferred that the magnet, at least one of the pair and preferablyboth of such magnets, are spherical in shape. It has been found thatspherical magnets are able to roll over the glass surface, thus avoidingthe skipping nature of flat attractive magnets when being moved acrossand separated by a window surface. Thus, in preferred embodiments, atleast two paired magnets of spherical shape are employed. To facilitatethe cleaning of the window surface, one pair of spherical magnets ispositioned at one end of a window contacting cleaning component, such asa soft cloth material or a squeegee, with the other end fitted withstill another pair of magnets, preferably also being spherical, thuspermitting the extent of material, squeegee, etc. to be drawn across thewindow's surface so that internal film thereon can be cleaned.

In still other preferred embodiments, to further reduce the breaking ofattractive forces caused by too rapid of a movement of the magnet pairs,certain embodiments employ at least one additional magnet placed in aposition that is ahead of the direction of movement of the magnet. Thus,in various embodiments there is a magnet placed within one half inch ofthe paired magnet such that when the paired magnet pair is moved acrossa window surface, the attractive forces of the preceding magnet set up amagnetic field that provides a magnetic path for the paired magnet pairto follow that reduces or eliminates the occurrence of skipping causedby frictional forces caused by the surface interaction between themagnet pair and their respective surfaces. In certain embodiments, thereis one or more of a smaller magnet positioned on either side of a magnethaving a larger magnetic force (e.g. one of the magnet pair) such thatwhen a wiper blade assembly is moved to-and-fro, the wiper-mate magnetassembly moves easier across the surface of the glass when the periodicwiper blade passes back and forth over the window surface, withoutsuffering from skipping that may otherwise occur between the magnetpair. Preferably, the wiper is operated on its slowest speed availableso as to reduce the likelihood that the magnetic pair contact will bebroken due, for example, to the too quick movement of the pair, thuspermitting frictional forces to break the magnetic attraction betweenthe two magnets that form the pair. The additional smaller magnets,properly placed in relation to the larger (or more attractive) magnets,is preferred to also preclude the breaking of the desired magnetic forceattraction (such as by skipping of a magnet) and to attempt to re-attachto the previously experienced mating forces. While the cross-glassmovement is achieved, such skipping may result in breaking the magneticattraction between the magnetic pair, thus defeating the objective ofthe invention: the paired moving retention of the interior magneticcleaning element such that the interior of the windshield has its lightscattering film removed via the back and forth motion of the bladeassembly as it is magnetically coupled to the magnetic “wiper-mate” onthe interior of the windshield.

Preferably, the spherical magnets are coated with a thin coat of softmaterial that avoids scratching of a window glass surface as theball-shaped magnets rolls along the surface of the glass. Protectivecovers reduces the likelihood the magnets will scratch or otherwisedamage the glass surface, with protective covers being any softmaterial, such as felt. However, any soft, non-scratching materialattachable to magnet is suitable for use as protective cover. In otherembodiments, however, the rolling nature of the magnet avoids theprospect that any debris on the glass will cause a scratch in the windowby the rolling movement of the magnet. Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB)magnets have the highest energy density of commercially availablemagnets. In a tested prototype, when embedded in a commercialSUPPERBALL, a pair of balls could be dropped from about a meter and havea high probability of sticking together as they bounced. Samarium Cobalt(SmCo) magnets, although weaker, may be used. In some application,Aluminum Nickel Cobalt (AlNiCO) magnets may be used when a weak magneticfield is sufficient.

Imbedding of magnets into elastopolymers (herein referred to by thegeneric term of “rubber”) results in the novel combination of the“mysterious” attractive-repulsive action of magnets to the elasticaction of rubber. Although a variety of magnet types, shapes, and sizesare compatible with the system of the present invention, preferably,magnet is a disc-shaped neodymium magnet (neomagnet) having a diameterof about 2 inches (5.08 cm), a thickness of about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm),and a grade or rating of about 30 to 45 T (30,000 to 45,000 gauss;available from AEC Magnetics, Cincinnati, Ohio, product no. H-4162).Although a grade of about 30 to 45 T is preferred, magnets in the rangeof about 10 to 90 T (10,000 to 90,000 gauss) are also compatible withthis invention.

While a single magnet produces sufficient pull additional magnets may bestacked on top of one another to provide increased pull for otherapplications.

One of skill in the art will appreciate the various ways to manufactureacceptable constructs to achieve surface cleaning functions, especiallydirected to cleaning windows, and even more specifically to cleaningwindshields. In various embodiments, the spherical magnets are retainedin a manner that permits the maximum attractive forces between a magnetpair that is separated by a glass surface such as by having retentionenclosures that permit direct contact of a portion of the sphere withthe glass surface, preferably both of the magnets that make up the pairof magnets is retained in a rolling permissive fashion such that atleast a portion of the magnet is in direct contact with the glass. Withrespect to a windshield, therefore, it is advisable to have a pair ofmagnet construct such that at least a good portion of the sphericalmagnet, preferably just less than the entire region around the equatorof the sphere, is uncovered by the retaining mechanism or structure,thus facilitating the rolling capability of the magnet, while at thesame time, permitting the direct glass surface contact by the magnet. Bydoing similar retention structures on each side of the glass, the bestprospects are achieved to retain desired magnetic attraction of the pairof magnets. Similarly, smaller spherical magnets can be retained in thesame fashion, but positioned in such a fashion next to the main magneticpair to facilitate the absence of skipping of the magnet pair. While notbound by theory, it is believed that the magnetic field created by boththe main magnet and an adjacent smaller magnet, provides a broader areaover which magnetic attractive forces can be generated to facilitate thedesired movement of the magnetic cleaning aspects of the variousembodiments of the present invention. One of skill in the art willfurther appreciate that more than one or two magnets, whether sphericalor not, can be provided in positions away from the main magnetic pair,to achieve the above described facilitated movement of the magnets thatare separated by a glass surface and where a cleaning element associatedwith such magnets, is compelled to move when the opposing magnet of thepair is moved across the opposing side of the glass. Additional figuresshow spherical magnet structures that are encompassed by the presentinvention.

The aforementioned Summary of the present invention should not beconstrued as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as anexemplification of one preferred embodiment thereof. Many othervariations of use are possible, as will be known by one of skill in theart in view of the disclosure and guidance as provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Further features and advantages of the present invention will resultmore evident from the indicative, and therefore non limiting,description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of a devicefor removing condensate from surfaces of a body, as shown in theenclosed drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment where magnetic elements are provided on wiperextensions such that the spherical magnets can attract a magnet on theinterior of the windshield that is associated with one or more cleaningelements. In various embodiments, the spherical magnets are retained ina manner that permits the maximum attractive forces between a magnetpair that is separated by a glass surface such as by having retentionenclosures that permit direct contact of a portion of the sphere withthe glass surface, preferably both of the magnets that make up the pairof magnets is retained in a rolling permissive fashion such that atleast a portion of the magnet is in direct contact with the glass. Withrespect to a windshield, therefore, it is advisable to have a pair ofmagnet construct such that at least a good portion of the sphericalmagnet, preferably just less than the entire region around the equatorof the sphere, is uncovered by the retaining mechanism or structure,thus facilitating the rolling capability of the magnet, while at thesame time, permitting the direct glass surface contact by the magnet. Bydoing similar retention structures on each side of the glass, the bestprospects are achieved to retain desired magnetic attraction of the pairof magnets

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a particular plastic washer thatretains a spherical magnet so that it is in window surface rollingcontact with a window surface, and is attracted to another magneticfeature (not shown) on the opposite side of the window.

FIG. 3 shows a “Wiper-Mate” device assembly where an exterior magneticcomponent is associated with a window wiper of a vehicle, and aninterior component having a magnetic attractive feature comprising aplurality of magnets fixedly connected to a soft, window wiping materialis on the interior of the window.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment where a series of magnets, preferablyspherical, are positioned on either side of a windshield to facilitatereversibly attachable magnetic material traversing the interior windowsurface.

WRITTEN DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Advantageously, the magnetic attraction between the first and the secondmagnetic positioned on opposite sides of a windshield 12 facilitate themoving of the exterior magnet 18 in a fashion so as to cause theinterior magnet 18 to move, thus cleaning LSF from the interior of awindshield. A first magnet 18 generates a magnetic induction flow whichpasses through the glass surface and reaches the second interiorlypositioned magnet 18, which interacts with the first magnet 18 andensures that the two magnets are mutually attracted each other. Theexteriorly positioned magnet 18 is preferably associated with a wiperblade assembly of a vehicle. Alternatively, the wiper assembly, insteadof employing a magnet 18, can simply include a ferromagnetic elementinstead of a magnet, such that the ferromagnetic element is reached bythe magnetic induction flow of the first magnet 18 positioned on theinterior side of a windshield 12 and being magnetically attracted bythis latter. The magnets employed are preferably rare earth magnets dueto their small size and great strength and the ability to last for longperiods of time without losing their magnetic attractive features.Alternative embodiments, however, include the use of some or all ofnatural magnets, such as those constituted of naturally magnetizedmagnetite, as well as artificial magnets, such as magnets wherein themagnetic properties have been obtained by subjecting the material usedfor obtaining the magnet to a magnetization treatment.

In still other embodiments, the magnets of the wiper blade assembly maybe one or more electromagnets that may be fed by an electric source andactivated by an operator or driver. In each case, independently of thetype of magnet 18 used, the first exterior magnet 18 and the secondinterior magnet 18 should be selected in such a way that the attractionforce between the magnets is at least sufficient to ensure that the twomagnets remain in contact with the respective face of the surface (e.g.windshield).

In certain embodiments, the magnets employed, either in the exteriorwiper assembly or in the internal magnetic construct, are removable andreplaceable, such that one can adjustably select the type, strength andnumber of magnets employed in any particular situation. Thus, thickerwindshields can be cleaned simply by selecting stronger magnets for usein the opposed constructs. Thus, if one desires to change the thicknessof the surface from which it is necessary to remove a LSF or condensate,it is possible to change the magnets to restore the correct or desiredmagnetic attraction force between the two opposing constructs.

In a particular embodiment of the present invention relating to scuba orsnorkel masks, a divers glove can be accommodated to have at least onemagnetic element associated therewith such that an internally positionedwiping element can be magnetically directed to wipe the internal surfaceof the scuba mask when the magnetic element of the diver's glove ismoved in such a manner. Thus, while in some embodiments a scuba maskwould feature an integral internal wiping mechanism having at least onemagnetic element associated therewith, in other embodiments, a linearmagnetic construct is provided that can be used with existing masks bysimply placing such a construct inside the mask prior to use by a diver.Then with the mere attraction of the magnetic linear construct insidethe mask by a diver's glove (which has at least one magnetic elementtherein—such as in the small finger outer extent of such a glove)—it ispossible for the diver, while under water, to simply position his littlefinger next to the glass surface of his/her mask and thereby attract thelinear magnetic construct so as to cause such linear construct totraverse across the interior surface of the mask, thus clearingcondensate from such surface. In other embodiment, the exterior magneticcomponent may not be in a diver's glove, but instead may be either afreely hand-held magnet, such as attachable around a diver's wrist (sothey do not inadvertently drop the same) such that when a diver's maskgets foggy, they can simply raise the magnet 18 to the surface of theirmask and cause the internally located magnetic cleaning element to bemoved across the interior mask's surface, thus removing the condensatethere from. In still other embodiments, masks are manufactured such thatan internal magnetic element is permanently part of the internalstructure of the mask, with an opposing magnetic element part of theexternal portion of the mask. Movement of the external portion thencauses the internal portion to move, thus facilitating the cleaning ofcondensation on the inside of a diver's mask without the need totraditionally “clear” the mask via permitting water inside to run acrossthe surface of the interior mask glass.

After a certain operating time, the body heat warms the internal face ofthe transparent surface of the mask and, as typically the divingenvironment has a temperature lower than 37° C., the internal face ofthe transparent surface begins to be affected from the condensateformation. By slidably dragging the external magnet 18, the internallypositioned linear magnetic construct of the mask is similarly movedacross the internal surface of the mask's glass, due to the magneticattraction, and cleans off the accumulated condensate. In such a scubamask application the internal cleaning material may be either a rubberor plastic blade, or another type of cloth material that does not leaveundesired streaks across the glass, while effectively removing thecondensate formed on the interior surface of the mask. While in certainembodiments, the internal magnetic construct is in a fixed relation tothe mask, in others the construct is simply placed freely into the maskby a diver, such that the diver can manipulate the magnetic constructwhen required and in a manner that the diver sees fit, e.g. the divermay wish to clear a portion of the side of his/her mask, rather than afront portion, employing the same magnetic linear construct that may bealso used to clear the front mask structure.

Similar to the embodiment directed to the scuba mask, one of skill inthe art will appreciate various other applications of the presentinvention in the skiing and snowboarding field as winter goggles oftensuffer from condensate buildup and require cleaning. In accordance withthe description set forth herein with respect to a scuba mask one ofskill will appreciate that a goggle can replace a mask and thus thedescription of such a separate embodiment is also met by the abovedescription.

For ease of complying with written description and enablementrequirements, the following references are incorporated herein in theirentireties: 20120042464 to Statkus; U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,301 to Kemp;U.S. Pat. No. 515,570 to Muscroft; U.S. Pat. No. 8,528,149 to Satkus;20130014782 to Rya; WO2006095229 to Fabiani; U.S. Pat. No. 8,924,019 toTang; U.S. Pat. No. 8,001,649 to Rhodes; U.S. Pat. No. 7,946,301 toWalsh; U.S. Pat. No. 8,528,149 to Statkus; U.S. Pat. No. 8,395,467 toFullerton; 20120264341 to Mimlitch; U.S. Pat. No. 8,057,606 to EnochIII; U.S. Pat. No. 7,657,961 to Shank; 20060032010 to Francois; U.S.Pat. No. 5,105,501 to Okeefe; U.S. Pat. No. 4,977,637 to Demers; U.S.Pat. No. 3,731,337 to Doyel; U.S. Pat. No. 3,751,750 to Kaftan;20080256735 to Campbell; U.S. Pat. No. 8,256,122 to Hatfield; U.S. Pat.No. 6,446,301 to Kemp; U.S. Pat. No. 8,505,153 to Nelson; U.S. Pat. No.8,826,482 to Chin; 2015/0027494 and 2014/0332030 to Trudeau;2014/0034084 to Ryu et. al.; 2015/0082572 to Kim; U.S. Pat. No.8,491,312 to Rudisill; all generally related to the field of providingincreased visibility through a windshield 12 to promote driving safety,and/or directed to various magnetic assemblies that have application inparticular embodiments as set forth herein.

One of skill in the art will appreciate the various modifications andembodiments that are encompassed by the present invention as describedherein, especially in view of the guidance provided by the figures inthe present application.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment where magnetic elements 21 are provided onwiper extensions 22 such that the spherical magnets 21 can attract amagnet 18 on the interior of the windshield 12 that is associated withone or more cleaning elements associated with the linear magneticcomponent 10.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a particular plastic washer 19 thatretains a spherical magnet 18 so that it is in rolling contact with awindshield 12 window surface, and is attracted to another magneticfeature (not shown) on the opposite side of the windshield 12 window.

FIG. 3 shows a “Wiper-Mate” device assembly where an exterior magneticcomponent is associated with a window wiper 20 of a vehicle, and aninterior component having a magnetic 18 attractive feature comprising aplurality of magnets 18 fixedly connected to a soft, window wipingmaterial is on the interior of the window, generally referred to hereinas a linear magnetic component 10 One will appreciate that variousbrackets 22 can be employed to either fixedly or reversibly attachmagnets 21, preferably at least one spherical magnet 21, to the exteriorside of a windshield 12 of a vehicle (preferably via association withthe movable wiper blade 20 assembly) so as to magnetically attract oneor more magnets 18, preferably at least one of which is spherical, onthe inside of the vehicle windshield 12.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment where a series of magnets 21, preferablyspherical, are positioned on the exterior of a windshield 12 tofacilitate reversibly attachable magnetic material traversing theinterior windshield surface. One will appreciate that one or moresmaller magnets 18 may be used in conjunction with larger magnets 18 soas to facilitate directional movement of a linear magnetic component 10when an exterior magnetic component 18 is employed to magneticallyattract the interior linear magnetic component 10 designed to contactthe interior windshield 12 window surface to facilitate cleaningthereof.

As designed, a device and method embodying the teachings of the presentinvention is easily applied. The foregoing description is included toillustrate the operation of the preferred embodiment and is not meant tolimit the scope of the invention. As one can envision, an individualskilled in the relevant art, in conjunction with the present teachings,would be capable of incorporating many minor modifications that areanticipated within this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of theinvention is to be broadly limited only by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for cleaning light scattering film fromthe interior of a windshield, comprising: a linear magnetic componentcomprising: a first plurality of rare earth magnetic members, and amaterial for cleaning a windshield's interior surface; a secondplurality of rare earth magnetic members adapted to be connected to awiper assembly of a vehicle located on an exterior of said windshield,said first plurality of rare earth magnetic members adapter to bepositioned on the interior side of said windshield and opposite saidsecond plurality of rare earth magnetic members, such that when saidsecond plurality of rare earth magnetic members are moved, said linearmagnetic component moves simultaneously therewith, with magnetic forcesalone between said linear magnetic component and said second pluralityof rare earth magnetic members on the exterior of the windshieldcompelling the linear magnetic component to travel across the interiorof the windshield; wherein said linear magnetic component is portableand is adapted to be stored in the vehicles glove box or under a seat ofthe vehicle and wherein the first plurality of rare earth magnet memberscomprise at least two spherical rare earth magnets at a first end and asecond end of said linear magnetic component, said linear magneticcomponent positionable in a first position on the interior surface ofthe windshield for magnetic attraction with said second plurality ofrare earth magnetic members on the exterior of the windshield, said atleast two spherical rare earth magnets having a thin coat of softmaterial to avoid scratching the windshield's interior surface as the atleast two spherical rare earth magnets roll along the interior surfaceof the windshield.
 2. The system as set forth in claim 1, wherein saidsecond plurality of rare earth magnetic members comprise a sphericalmagnet member adapted to connect to the wiper assembly of the vehiclewith an extension positioning the spherical magnet member above thewiper assembly.
 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein said secondplurality of rare earth magnetic members are spaced apart.
 4. A systemfor cleaning light scattering film from an interior of a windshield,comprising: an exterior magnetic component adapted to attach to a wiperassembly of a vehicle, a linear magnetic component adapted to receive aplurality of Neodymium magnets in a linear array, said linear magneticcomponent positionable in a first position for magnetic attraction withsaid exterior magnetic component, said linear magnetic componentcomprising a material for cleaning the windshield's interior surface;said linear magnetic component having a surface for contacting theinterior of the windshield at a portion opposite the wiper assemblypositioned on an exterior of the windshield, whereby when the wiperassembly is operated, magnetic forces between said magnetic componentand said linear magnetic component alone compel the linear magneticcomponent to travel across the interior surface of the windshield toremove said light scattering film present on said interior surface,wherein the linear magnetic component, weighs less than ½ pound; andwherein the plurality of Neodymium magnets comprise at least twospherical rare earth magnets at a first end and a second end of saidlinear magnetic component, said at least two spherical rare earthmagnets having a thin coat of soft material to avoid scratching thewindshield's interior surface as the at least two spherical rare earthmagnets roll along the interior surface of the windshield.